In the latest of a regular series, we check in with leading hoteliers and general managers to get an exclusive glimpse into their careers, their lives and their ambitions. This time, we speak to Florence Alloing, general manager at Georgian House Hotel.
I enjoy my job because…
I get to work with a fantastic, open-minded and dedicated team. This allows me to be adventurous and creative in my role with the comfort of knowing that the team will be happy to take on any new challenges that I throw at them!
I find my job challenging because…
Of the economic and political uncertainty, particularly how the changes in mentalities and consumer behaviours are going to affect our industry.
My best achievement in business was…
Developing the skills within my team by increasing their financial awareness through various forms of training. I have made all heads of department responsible for their own budget and payroll. This has already had a really positive impact on the business. It has also been great for the heads of department – they have really thrived from the increased responsibility and in turn become much more engaged within their roles.
My worst mistake in business was…
Years ago, I was looking for people who were similar to me when recruiting new team members. I have since learnt that diversity is key to building a strong and successful team.
What I am yet to accomplish is…
Making Georgian House a sustainable hotel. I have only been in my role for six months so the sustainable journey has just started – there is still so much we can do. I am, however, really pleased by all the steps we have already achieved. Dan Gatehouse, the operations manager of Victorian House Hotel (our sister hotel), has the same aspiration and I really hope our properties will be seen as examples by independent hoteliers.
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be…
Nothing really. I have learnt to be happy the way I am – both with my qualities and flaws.
If I could change one thing about the industry, it would be…
The working conditions. I am utterly disappointed when I hear from friends and former colleagues that they had to work 24 hours straight, or had to cancel their holidays due to business needs. Thankfully some companies are leading the way and I hope the Hoteliers’ Charter will encourage more to follow. It is really important for the industry to look after its people.
My top three bucket list items are…
- Win the Catey Hotel of the Year award.
- Go to Japan with my daughter.
- Go paragliding (although I am afraid of heights so I might need to get over that…).
My life philosophy is…
If you can, stop doing the things that make you unhappy.
My favourite song, book or film is…
If I had to name one book it would be 1984 by George Orwell.
My ideal weekend would be…
In the South of the Alps, hiking and enjoying the mountains with my family and friends.
